As we stand on the starting line of a New Year it is a perfect time to share the excitement of many new beginnings. First of all, HAPPY NEW YEAR family, friends, fans! I just landed in Colorado Springs and got my room at the Olympic training center and am staring down the beginning of the 2014 season with anticipation. On my first run today I savored the crisp mountain air and the sweet smell of ponderosa - oh how I have missed you, Colorado! The season will start with races in Colorado Springs and Albuquerque before I head to Boston for my first major race. The main event of the season will be the USA Championships (Feb 21-23) in Albuquerque and then the Indoor World Championships in Poland (7-9 March). And since I am in Colorado, I guess there is no better place to announce another new beginning that will make 2014 one of the most memorable years of my life. After 6 years, I will finally get to marry my best friend, Brittany. Six years ago when we met in the indoor track at the Air Force Academy, I knew Brittany was a special woman, but I never realized what a fullness and strength she would bring to my life. I am so proud of Brittany's success in her Air Force career and her service to the country that gave me a new life. I am so proud that I get to support my best friend as she changes the world everyday. I know we will face many challenges and adventures throughout our lives, but we will face them together praying to God that he will lead us on many amazing journeys!

And finally, in the spirit of New Beginnings, I am thrilled to to enter the third year of the Lopez Lomong Foundation and 4 South Sudan. Over the past 2 years we have raised over $750,000.00 for water projects in South Sudan. Last year we held the 1st Annual Hood to Coast 4 South Sudan Relay! Can't wait for H2C Part 2. This year marks the beginning of the education campaign for 4 South Sudan!

Lopez's New Year Resolution: Raise $500,000.00 for education in South Sudan through 4 South Sudan and World Vision.

Brittany's New Year Resolution:Write a letter or an email to a friend each week to let them know how much they mean to me.

As many know, this December was a rough time for South Sudan, with the outbreak of politically charged ethnic violence. As always, women and children were caught in the middle of the strife of a young country that yearns for stability and peace. While the solutions to the ethnic conflicts that crippled South Sudan are challenging to pinpoint, 4 South Sudan and World Vision are even more committed to fighting for a bright future for the new generation in South Sudan. My birth country is one of so much beauty and diversity. Despite the political and ethnic challenges of a young country it is important to hear the voices of people who dream each day for a world without violence. I believe even more strongly that education is the key to allowing young people to have the tools to change their country. Thank you to World Vision and my other partners for helping me have a huge impact on South Sudan. Most of all, thank you so much to everyone for all of the support and encouragement over the last few years as we have made this dream a reality!

Running Tip #14:Doing a workout is like keeping a New Year's Resolution - the longer you wait to strap on the sneakers and hit the trails, the more tempting it is to skip a day or cheat just this once! Ditch the temptation by making time in your morning to get your workout in. I promise - waking up 45 minutes early to get a run done in the morning will keep you on track to make good habits in 2014!